Apparently Denmark got liberated from the Germans in the evening of the 4th of May, 1945. That day (well, evening) the people celebrated their freedom by placing lots of candles in their windows, and that became a tradition until this day. So I waited until today to post about candles and candle holders, because it seemed very appropriate.
But in all honesty the Danes have candles lighted in their windows, dining table, side table, commode... doesn't matter where, really... all year long. Candles make the home hyggelig and they love it. I think it's cute and sweet like many of their other traditions and habits.
The 4th of May - Candles in the windows:
ReplyDeleteFrom the 9th of April 1940, when Germany invaded Denmark, till the 4th of May 1945 when Germany surrendered to our Allies, it was decided by law, that all windows should be covered with black curtains from sunset till sunrise, so that no light could be seen from the outside and guide the airplanes of "The Enemy".
In the evening on the 4th of May 1945, when The Message of Freedom (direkte oversat) was transmitted from BBC London, all the black curtains were torn down and burned in the streets, and candles, as many as possible, were spontainously lit and put in the windows to celebrate the return of light and freedom.
FRIHEDSBUDSKABET (timeline 2:12) via BBC 4 Maj 1945. Johannes G Sørensen fra BBC:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78pDhZb8hZo
OCCUPATION OF DENMARK (Ufa-Tonwoche 1940) German Propaganda:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBasq2kxeKs&feature=related
GLIMT FRA BEFRIELSEN - Ribe:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJoxFrwwhvs&feature=related
For further information watch "Matador", or even better ask Emil! :-D
PS.
ReplyDeleteIn lack of enough candle holders on the 4th of May 1945 potatoes were used. :-)